WE might not (ever) be guaranteed picnic weather but it's a simple fact that food always tastes better in the open air.

Carluccios has taken the effort out of the prep with a new, very reasonably priced take-away range that can be ordered for collection up to four-hours in advance from the Glasgow restaurant.

There is a choice of either the classic or vegetarian picnics which both feature an antipasti selection including; Ligurian focaccia bread rosemary bruschetta topped with fresh ricotta, mint and pea shoots and panzanella salad with tomatoes.

For the carnivores there is poached summer chicken coated with a lemon and herb crumb and served with couscous and seasonal leaves.

The veggie option offers roasted peppers stuffed wtih spinach, baby plum tomatoes, ricotta and goat’s cheese.

Sweet treats include apricot frangipan tarts along with fig, hazelnut and chocolate biscotti.

Each picnic is priced at £45, extremely good value for such a feast and you get to keep the cool bag, which also comes with napkins and cutlery.

There is also a children's version available for £10.

Order at Carluccios Glasgow, 7 West Nile Street or by calling 0141 248 1166. www.carluccios.com/picnics.